The young lady made no answer--at least not in words; but there was something in her silence, that led me to think, she was not offended at my rudeness. Gradually I recovered composure, sufficient to conduct myself in a more becoming manner, when the Captain called my attention to Mrs Nowell--in whom I recognised Mrs Hyland, the mother of Lenore. My long continued misapprehension--so near leading to a life-long misery--was soon fully explained. Mason, whom I had met in Sydney--and with whom the error originated--had been himself the victim of a mistake. He had called to see Captain Nowell on business; and the latter, not being at home, the old steward had asked to see his wife. Mrs Nowell being engaged at the time, her daughter had come out to receive him; and, as Mason had been formerly acquainted with Captain Hyland and his family, of course he recognised Lenore. This circumstance--along with something that had occurred in the short conversation between her and the steward--had led to the misapprehension; and Mason had left the house under the belief that Lenore Hyland was Captain Nowell's wife! I never passed a more happy evening, than that upon which I again met Lenore--though my happiness did not spring, from the "disenchantment" promised by Cannon. I did not think of poor Jessie; and also forgot all about my intention of returning to the colonies, until reminded of it by Captain Nowell--as I was about to take leave of him and his family for the night. "Stone," he said, "now that you have found your old friends, you must give them as much of your time as possible: for you know, in a few days, we are to sail for Australia." This speech was accompanied by a glance, that told me the Captain did not expect my company upon his next voyage. I proudly fancied that Lenore interpreted it, in the same sense as I had done: for the blush that broke over her beautiful cheeks, while adding bloom, at the same time led me to believe that my remaining in London would be consonant with her wishes. Volume Three, Chapter XXXI. A CHILD OF NATURE. One morning as I sat in my room, impatiently waiting for the hour when I could call upon Lenore; and pondering over the events of my past life-- especially that latest one that had given such a happy turn to it--I was informed by Mrs Nagger that a lady was downstairs, who wished to see me. "What is the ladylike?" I inquired, still thinking of Lenore. "Like an angel in some great trouble," replied Mrs Nagger; "and more's the pity! sir, for she's a very nice young lady, I'm sure." "Did she give any name?" "No, sir; and more's the pity, for I should like to know it, but she seems very anxious to see you, and more's the pity, that she should be kept so long waiting." I descended the stairs, entered the parlour, and stood face to face with Jessie H--.